Experimental Design and Optimization: Application to a Grignard ReactionNaoual Bouzidi and Christel GozziThis 5-week project, which systematically investigates optimizing the synthesis of benzyl-1-cyclopentan-1-ol, constitutes an initiation into research methodology and experimental design to prepare the student-engineer for an industry internship. Other pedagogical goals include experience in synthetic techniques, obtaining reproducible yields, and using quantitative analysis methods.Bouzidi, Naoual; Gozzi, Christel. J. Chem. Educ.2008, 85, 1544.

Addition Reactions |

Alcohols |

Aldehydes / Ketones |

Chemometrics |

Gas Chromatography |

Organometallics |

Synthesis

Regioselectivity in Organic Synthesis: Preparation of the Bromohydrin of α-MethylstyreneBrad Andersh, Kathryn N. Kilby, Meghan E. Turnis, and Drew L. MurphyIn the described experiment, the regiochemical outcome of the addition of "HOBr" to a-methylstyrene is investigated. Although both "classic" qualitative analysis and instrumental techniques are described, the emphasis of this experiment is on the utilization 13C and DEPT-135 NMR spectroscopy to determine the regiochemical outcome of the addition. Andersh, Brad; Kilby, Kathryn N.; Turnis, Meghan E.; Murphy, Drew L. J. Chem. Educ.2008, 85, 102.

Addition Reactions |

Alcohols |

Alkenes |

Constitutional Isomers |

IR Spectroscopy |

Microscale Lab |

NMR Spectroscopy |

Synthesis

Organic Functional Group Playing Card DeckMichael J. WelshOrganic functional group playing card deck used for review of the name and structure of organic functional groups that can be used to play any game that a normal deck of cards is used for.Welsh, Michael J. J. Chem. Educ.2003, 80, 426.

The Reaction Rolodex; A Web-Based System for Learning Reactions in Organic ChemistryEric MahanThis Web-based system of note cards has been developed to aid students in learning the vast number of reactions encountered in organic chemistry. A thorough knowledge of these reactions is essential for success in first- and second-semester organic chemistry courses. The reactions are organized by functional group and can be chosen from a menu at the left side of the Web page. Once a particular reaction has been selected, the main frame displays the reactant(s) and reagent(s) along with a question mark in place of the product. After considering the reaction as long as needed, the user can click the question mark to reveal the reaction product. Clicking the product will again hide the answer and regenerate the question mark so that the reaction can be practiced again. Selecting other reactions from the menu on the left allows them to be practiced in the same manner.